Sting will play the first Bataclan set since the Paris attacks, the New York Times reports. He’ll perform on November 12, with The Libertines frontman Pete Dohorty set to play November 16.
The famed Parisian venue closed down following last year’s wave of Islamic State terrorist activity in Paris. Dozens were killed at the venue on November 13, 2015, where The Eagles of Death Metal were performing at the time. The reopening is one day shy of the anniversary of the attacks.
“In reopening the Bataclan, we have two important tasks to reconcile,” Sting said in a statement on his website. “First, to remember and honor those who lost their lives in the attack a year ago, and second, to celebrate the life and the music that this historic theater represents. In doing so, we hope to respect the memory as well as the life-affirming spirit of those who fell. We shall not forget them.”
Sting previously played at the Bataclan with the Police during their tour in April 1979. His performance announcement will provide a major boost to the Bataclan, which has reportedly struggled to attract performers since the Paris attacks.
French authorities granted the venue over €280,000 to cover restoration fees, and the venue has been fully refurbished. Government security officials gave the go-ahead to re-open the venue to the public last week.
All concert proceeds will be donated to Life for Paris and 13onze15, two charities working with victims of the Paris attacks. Tickets for the Sting show will go on sale on 8 November. The singer will be joined by three-piece band to perform songs from his new album 57th & 9th.
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